By: John Axtell Posted at: 03/02/2019 11:38 PMLINCOLN - The Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation used Nebraska Statehood Day on Friday to unveil a $1.8-million dollar capital campaign to expand and improve the Ethel and Christopher J. Abbott Visitor Center at Chimney Rock State Historical Site.

Foundation executive director Leslie Fattig says Chimney Rock is such an iconic Nebraska landmark that the group thought it was appropriate to announce the project on the anniversary of Nebraska's statehood."

Fattig says just under $1.5 million dollars, better than 80% of the goal, has already been raised with the public being asked now for the rest. Donations are being accepted on the foundation website with a variety of fundraising events to be announced throughout the year.

The foundation in November purchased 360-acres of land that sits between the 300-foot high state-owned Chimney Rock and the Abbott Visitor Center, helping trigger the decision to move forward on the expansion-enhancement project.

Chimney Rock attracts about 30,000 people a year with the Visitor Center offering the closest public viewing of the landmark noted by travelers on the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails as well as museum exhibits featuring pioneers and the migrations in the West.

Fattig says the planned improvements that include an outdoor classroom and a trail that takes visitors closer to Chimney Rock will accommodate more visitors and enhance the visitor educational experience. Additional improvements will be announced as plans are finalized.

Those interested in donating can do so via mail, phone or the Historical Society Foundation website. All donations will go towards the Chimney Rock project. www.nshsf.org/projects/chimney-rock/.